El Salvador has been guided by Nayib Bukele since his election, a leadership path that has drawn intense debate both at home and abroad. In his early public address, he framed the outcome of the presidential race as a clear mandate from the people, a win he described as a decisive public confirmation rather than a mandate granted by foreign powers or traditional political elites.
During a media interaction, a Spanish journalist pressed him on the nature of democracy and the calls to unwind or criticize his approach to governance. Bukele responded by tracing the origin of democracy to the Latin terms demos and kratos, emphasizing that democracy, at its core, is the power of the people. He noted that the vote tally, with a substantial share of the ballots, reflected broad popular support rather than a cooperation of distant institutions with distant interests. He suggested that the term democracy should be understood through the lens of Salvadoran citizens and their choices in shaping their government.
He then spoke about the responsibility of media and non-governmental organizations, arguing that external observers sometimes misinterpret the local political climate. The president asserted that true democracy means Salvadorans decide their government without external compulsion or interference. He criticized what he described as external pressures or models that he believed did not fit the national context, labeling certain narratives as colonial or elitist rather than democratic in spirit.
In this frame, Bukele highlighted the practical essence of democracy as the ability of Salvadorans to select leadership that aligns with their own needs and priorities. He called on journalists, NGOs, and international bodies to recognize the legitimacy of the domestic process and to avoid casting foreign judgments over internal affairs. He insisted that respect for national sovereignty is a prerequisite for any healthy relationship with the international community, and he welcomed constructive dialogue that respects Salvadoran autonomy.
In addressing international audiences, the president asserted that the country does not rely on external aid as a condition for standing up to criticism. What the administration seeks is mutual respect and a space for dialogue. He framed partnerships as equal, emphasizing friendship, cooperation, and shared goals rather than dependency or subservience. The emphasis was on sovereign decision-making and on pursuing policies that reflect the lived experiences and priorities of Salvadoran citizens, built through formal processes that are accessible to all who wish to participate.
Since March 2022, the nation has operated under a state of emergency that has persisted with minimal signs of retreat. Supporters point to security gains stemming from a comprehensive set of措施 aimed at dismantling gang activity. They highlight a significant reduction in crime rates and improvements in public safety, arguing that the measures have restored a sense of order and confidence to many communities. Critics, however, voice concerns about civil liberties and the long-term implications of suspending certain rights. The debate continues, framed by contrasting perspectives on how best to protect citizens while upholding constitutional guarantees. The discussion reflects a broader question about the balance between security and freedom, and the role of government in navigating that balance amid complex social challenges.